Young volunteers transform homelessness charity garden in Ribbleton Lane

Prince's Trust volunteer Bobby Croft — Prince’s Trust volunteer Bobby Croft

Homelessness charity Emmaus Preston is one step closer to growing its own fruit and vegetables, thanks to helping hands from young people taking part in the Prince’s Trust Team programme.

Ten young people, led by Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service, spent eight days clearing, tidying and weeding communal gardens at Emmaus’ community home in Ribbleton Lane.

The team painted doors and stained garden furniture, thanks to a generous donation of paint from local company, Bromborough Paints.

Emmaus Preston provides a home for up to 26 people with experience of homelessness, known as companions, and meaningful work in a social enterprise. This involves the sale of pre-loved and new goods at three charity shops across the city.

Greaves, who is supported by Emmaus Preston, said: “They were a good, hard-working bunch, who had a laugh and enjoyed what they were doing.”

Emmaus Preston Volunteer Coordinator, Lisa Lulat, said: “What a fantastic group from the Prince’s Trust. The young people were hard-working and polite at all times. The results are amazing. Thank you to the Team participants from all of us at Emmaus Preston.”

Back right to left: Vicay (UCLan social work student), Bobby, Greaves from Emmaus Preston, Tia, Anji (Prince’s Trust Course Leader), Mackenzie, Aiden, Ben. Front left to right: Shana (social work student), Olivia and Alicia

During breaks from gardening, young people from the Prince’s Trust spent time finding out more about Emmaus Preston by listening to people’s stories and even played music together.

Prince’s Trust volunteer, Bobby Croft, said: “We heard from people what the charity does and how Emmaus supports people; everyone deserves a second chance. Volunteering was very, very satisfying. It’s been a pleasure working here and meeting new people.”

Preston Central Prince’s Trust Team Leader, Anji Hesketh, who works for Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service, said: “We have been made very welcome by Emmaus. Some of the young people had never gardened before, so I’m really proud of what they’ve accomplished in eight days.”

To find out more about Emmaus Preston and the volunteer opportunities currently available, please visit the Emmaus website.

To find out more about the Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service Prince’s Trust Team programme visit the LFRS website.